A start-up from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)– Stellerus Technology– is set to deploy world’s first satellite constellation designed to generate three-dimensional (3D) wind data globally. The constellation, named the “Feilian Constellation” after ancient Chinese wind god “Feilian”, marks a major breakthrough in meteorological technology.
Key Objectives
- To capture wind speed, direction, and vertical movement with unprecedented resolution.
- To fill the global data gap in atmospheric and meteorological monitoring.
- To enhance forecasting accuracy for climate change-induced extreme events.
Why 3D Wind Data Matters
- Current systems (like weather balloons, aircraft sensors, and surface stations) provide only limited, point-based or intermittent data.
- Existing satellites track many weather parameters but cannot capture vertical wind layers, especially over oceans or clear skies
- The Feilian Constellation aims to produce hourly, kilometre-scale 3D wind maps worldwide- a first-of-its-kind initiative.
Technical and Economic Advantage
- Number of satellites (initial phase): 6 (with future expansion possible)
- Data generation: Real-time, high-resolution 3D wind fields.
- Cost efficiency: Utilises China’s low-cost satellite manufacturing, cutting costs from ~US$100 million per satellite (U.S. rates) to much less.
- Use of AI: To analyse CO₂, methane, and water vapour for better wind movement estimation.
Applications Across Sectors
Renewable Energy (Wind Power):
- Optimize turbine placement.
- Improve wind energy forecasting and output.
- Reduce maintenance downtime.
Aviation & Transport:
- Enhance flight safety through detection of vertical wind shear.
- Improve fuel efficiency and route planning.
Disaster Management & Insurance:
- Better tracking of cyclones, storms, and hurricanes.
- Improves risk assessment and insurance modeling.
Climate Science:
- Strengthens global climate prediction models.
- Improves carbon cycle and atmospheric flow analysis.
Competitive Edge
- First-ever commercial 3D wind satellite network.
- Combines meteorological expertise from HKUST and cost-effective production in China.
- Meets global demand for climate risk modeling, renewable energy optimization, and precision weather forecasting.
About Feilian Constellation
- Named after: “Feilian”- a wind deity in Chinese mythology, often depicted as a wind-carrying creature aiding atmospheric control.
- Purpose: To symbolize the constellation’s role in mastering and mapping the world’s wind systems.
About Stellerus Technology
- Founded: 2023
- Founded by: Academics from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
- Goal: To become the world’s first commercial provider of satellite-derived 3D wind data.
- Upcoming Launch: First two satellites within 18 months, followed by five more to complete the constellation.
HKUST (Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)
- Established: 1991
- Location: Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong
- Known for: Leading global research in aerospace technology, robotics, and environmental science.
- Rank: Among top Asian universities for technology innovation.
Global Meteorological Context
- India’s weather satellites: INSAT series and SCATSAT-1 (for oceanic wind data).
- NASA’s wind-related mission: Aeolus (European Space Agency satellite launched in 2018) — provided global wind data using Doppler lidar, but lacked full 3D vertical profiling.
- WMO (World Meteorological Organization): Coordinates global weather and atmospheric observation networks.
3D Wind Observation Importance
- 3D wind data integrates horizontal and vertical flow layers, enabling improved:
- Cyclone tracking
- Jet stream modeling
- Climate change projections
- Disaster early warnings
Significance
- Marks a new era in atmospheric monitoring, combining AI, satellite technology, and meteorology.
- Strengthens global readiness for climate variability.
- Enhances data-driven decision-making for governments, insurers, and renewable energy sectors.
- Reflects the growing role of private space-tech start-ups in advancing Earth observation systems.